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FormsUpdated March 2026

Guide to Form I-765 & I-131: Work and Travel Permits

Apply for work authorization (EAD) and a travel document (advance parole) alongside your I-485 — filed together, free when bundled.

Last updated: March 2026
Based on official USCIS guidelines

Form I-765 and Form I-131 are commonly filed together with Form I-485 during the marriage-based green card process. These forms allow applicants to work legally and travel outside the United States while their green card application is pending.

Quick Overview

Forms: I-765 (Work Authorization), I-131 (Travel Document)
Who files: Green card applicants (usually with Form I-485)
Purpose: Work legally and travel while waiting
Cost: Often included with I-485 filing (no additional fee in many cases)
Outcome: Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Advance Parole

What Is Form I-765?

Form I-765 is used to apply for a work permit, also known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Once approved, it allows you to:

  • Work legally in the United States
  • Apply for a Social Security Number (if eligible)
  • Work for most employers without restriction

What Is Form I-131?

Form I-131 is used to apply for a travel document, commonly called Advance Parole.

Once approved, it allows you to:

  • Travel outside the United States
  • Return while your green card application is pending

What Is a “Combo Card”?

In many cases, USCIS issues a single card that serves as both:

  • Work permit (EAD)
  • Travel document (Advance Parole)

This is commonly referred to as a “combo card.”

Who Should File These Forms?

You should consider filing Forms I-765 and I-131 if:

  • You have filed or are filing Form I-485
  • You want to work while your green card is pending
  • You may need to travel internationally

These forms are optional but highly recommended in most cases.

When Should You File?

Most applicants file Forms I-765 and I-131:

  • At the same time as Form I-485 (concurrent filing)

This helps avoid delays and allows you to receive benefits earlier.

Processing Time

Typical timelines:

  • Work permit (EAD): 3–6 months
  • Travel document (Advance Parole): 3–6 months

Processing times may vary depending on USCIS workload.

Important Travel Warning

If you leave the United States without an approved Advance Parole document:

  • Your Form I-485 application may be considered abandoned
  • You may not be allowed to re-enter

Always wait for approval before traveling.

Documents Required

Typical documents include:

  • Copy of passport
  • Copy of I-94 arrival record
  • Passport-style photos
  • Copy of I-485 receipt notice (if already filed)

Additional documents may be required depending on your case.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Traveling without Advance Parole
  • Filing incomplete applications
  • Forgetting to sign forms
  • Not filing early with I-485
  • Using outdated forms

These mistakes can delay your case or create serious issues.

Real Experiences & Tips

Based on real applicant experiences from public immigration communities:

  • Many applicants receive their work permit before their green card, allowing them to start working sooner
  • Some applicants receive a combo card, while others receive separate approvals for work and travel
  • Travel plans should always be made after receiving Advance Parole, not before
  • Delays can happen if applications are filed separately instead of together with I-485
  • Keeping copies of approval notices is helpful when traveling or starting a new job

These experiences may vary depending on your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work without Form I-765?
No, you must have a valid work permit to work legally.

Do I need Form I-131 if I don’t plan to travel?
No, it is optional, but recommended in case of emergencies.

How long are these documents valid?
Typically 1–2 years, depending on USCIS issuance.

Summary

Forms I-765 and I-131 allow green card applicants to work and travel while their application is pending. Filing these forms together with Form I-485 can help you maintain flexibility and avoid interruptions during the process.

Not Sure If You Should Apply for Work or Travel Permits?

Every situation is different, and timing can affect your case.

Answer a few quick questions and we’ll guide you step-by-step based on your situation.

  • Takes about 2 minutes
  • Personalized to your case
  • Helps you avoid mistakes

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